National Conference Faces Rebellion Over Omar Abdullah Cabinet Expansion
The National Conference is facing an internal revolt as dissident MLAs and MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi challenge Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's recent cabinet appointments.
The Jammu & Kashmir National Conference is facing an internal rebellion following a cabinet expansion by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on October 27. Between 12 and 24 dissident legislators, including Mubarak Gul, Abdul Majeed Larmi, and Nazir Ahmad Gurezi, held a closed-door meeting at the residence of MLA Qaiser Jamshaid Lone in Srinagar to demand a cabinet formed through consensus and merit.
The disgruntled lawmakers are seeking the resignation of the entire council of ministers and the removal of MP Shammi Oberoi and Nasir Ahmad Wani, the Chief Minister's advisor. While some legislators stated they are not leaving the party, MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi announced he will resign from both the party and his Lok Sabha seat on November 3, citing a betrayal of promises to restore Article 370.
NC President Farooq Abdullah attempted to manage the unrest but ultimately asserted party authority by confirming Ali Mohammad Sagar as General Secretary. This move effectively removed Mubarak Gul from the post after Gul reportedly refused the role because he was denied a cabinet berth. While NC spokesperson Ifra Jan dismissed reports of large-scale discontent as rumors, opposition leader Sunil Sharma claimed the government has lost the support of most of its MLAs.
